Episodit

  • When we talk about bloating, we’re not just referring to the occasional fullness after a meal. We’re delving into the intense pressure and pain that can accompany bloating and disrupt daily life.

    In this episode, Clare and Emma tackle the complexities of bloating, a prevalent symptom often associated with conditions like IBS and PCOS. They discuss the various underlying causes of bloating, including SIBO, food sensitivities, parasites, and inflammation. They also explore how lifestyle factors, stress, and even childhood habits can impact gut health.

    Emma opens up about her personal journey with bloating, sharing her struggles and the strategies she used to find relief after years of challenges. The conversation emphasises the importance of identifying and addressing the root causes of bloating rather than relying solely on elimination diets that offer only temporary relief.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone who suffers from bloating and is looking for a comprehensive, holistic approach to treatment.



    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • After sharing her personal breastfeeding journey, Clare received numerous messages from women concerned about facing similar challenges. Inspired by these conversations, Clare is dedicating this week’s episode to exploring the diverse experiences of breastfeeding.

    In this episode, PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare, presents a collection of stories from different women, each sharing their unique breastfeeding journeys. Drawing from her own experience of breastfeeding her daughter and navigating a low milk supply, Clare aims to challenge common misconceptions and provide a broad spectrum of perspectives.

    We’ll delve into the realities of breastfeeding, discuss various risk factors, and emphasize the importance of being prepared for different outcomes. This episode offers valuable insights and support to women preparing for breastfeeding.

    A special thank you to our guests: Steph Wrathall, Lucy Duncan, Isabel Moratiel, and Fannie Cai, for sharing their stories with us.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • Puuttuva jakso?

    Paina tästä ja päivitä feedi.

  • In this episode, Ovie’s Senior Nutritionist, Emma sits down with PCOS Explained Host and Ovie Founder, Clare to discuss the challenges and realities of breastfeeding, especially for those with PCOS.

    Societal pressures around breastfeeding can be overwhelming, and starting this journey often comes with a lot of stress and confusion. While breastfeeding is a wonderful option for many, it's not the right fit for everyone. Clare opens up about her personal experiences with low milk supply and how her PCOS influenced her breastfeeding journey.

    The conversation dives into the latest research on PCOS and breastfeeding, exploring the impact of hormonal imbalances, and identifying potential red flags during pregnancy. Clare offers valuable insights for mothers facing similar challenges and emphasises the importance of support, regardless of your feeding choices.

    Tune in for an honest and supportive discussion that highlights the need for compassion and understanding in the diverse experiences of motherhood.



    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • Welcome to this week’s episode of PCOS Explained! In today’s conversation, Clare and Emma take a deep dive into one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of PCOS—testosterone. They aim to clarify what testosterone is, how it impacts women with PCOS, and to debunk some of the most persistent myths surrounding this hormone.

    In this episode, we explore:

    Understanding Testosterone: Explore the role of testosterone in both male and female bodies.Common Misconceptions: Discover and debunk widespread myths about testosterone and its effects.Diagnosing PCOS: Learn how testosterone levels are linked to PCOS diagnosis.Impact of Imbalance: Understand how an imbalance in testosterone can contribute to PCOS symptoms.Blood Test Accuracy: Find out why blood tests may not always accurately reflect testosterone's activity.Age and Hormonal Contraception: Examine how age and hormonal contraception affect testosterone levels.Physiological Differences: Highlight the differences in androgen response between males and females.Treatment Options: Get insights into various treatment options for managing high testosterone levels.

    Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing PCOS for years, tune in to gain a clearer understanding of testosterone’s role and its impact on PCOS.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.


    Linked podcasts:

    Understanding ovulationBreaking down what's driving your PCOS
  • One person says this, and another person says that… sometimes it feels overwhelming trying to wrap your head around all the contraception options! Join Clare and Emma in this week’s PCOS Explained episode as they provide a comprehensive guide to your contraception options.

    In this episode, we delve into various contraception methods, including hormonal, non-hormonal, barrier methods, and emergency contraception, to help you make informed decisions based on your needs.

    We discuss:

    How Contraceptives Function: Learn how different methods work and their effectiveness.Options Available: From oral pills and injections to implants, IUDs, and the fertility awareness method.Side Effects: Understand potential side effects and their implications on your physiology.Emergency Contraception: What you need to know about handling urgent situations.Contraception and PCOS: Special considerations for those with PCOS.Myths and Misconceptions: We debunk common myths and clarify misconceptions surrounding contraception.Mental Health Considerations: Highlighting how some methods may affect mental health.

    This episode emphasizes the importance of listening to your own body and understanding its signals to find the contraception that suits you best.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In today's episode, Clare and Emma delve deep into the topic of ovulation, exploring the importance of understanding when you are ovulating, regardless of whether you are trying to conceive, avoid pregnancy, or become more in tune with your body.

    Ovulation is something we should’ve been taught at school, but weren’t! And as a result, there are many common misconceptions, such as the assumption that all women ovulate on day 14 of their cycle. In today’s episode, Clare and Emma unpack these common misconceptions and reveal why methods like ovulation predictor kits and certain apps may not be reliable, especially for women with PCOS.

    The episode emphasises the significance of being in tune with one’s body and highlights how identifying ovulation accurately can provide valuable insights into your health and fertility.

    In this podcast we'll be diving into:

    The phases of the menstrual cycle and explaining hormone fluctuationsThe importance of ovulationChallenges with PCOS and ovulationCommon misconceptions and tracking methods


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • Have you ever felt frustrated when your blood tests come back normal, despite experiencing a range of troubling symptoms? You’re not alone.

    In this week’s episode of PCOS Explained, Clare and Emma dive into the disconnect between feeling unwell and receiving 'normal' test results from medical labs. They unpack the limitations of standard blood tests and explain why many of us end up with 'normal' results.

    The discussion also covers:

    The problem with broad reference rangesDifference between normal and optimal health The importance of timing when getting tests doneChallenges in getting access to the right testsListening to your body and trusting your symptoms

    If you’re struggling to find answers for your health concerns, this episode will offer valuable insights on how to advocate for your health and navigate the complexities of medical testing. Tune in and empower yourself with knowledge to better understand and manage your health journey.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • Do you find yourself thinking about food all day long, believing it's just the norm? Isabel thought so too until she learned more about her PCOS.

    Isabel took part in our programme to improve her relationship with food, manage her weight, and understand why all her exercising was pushing her in the wrong direction.

    She found inner peace through the programme and felt so free after letting go of many things that had been taking over her life.

    *TW (miscarriage): After just a few months of the changes, Isabel started getting her regular periods, and shortly after, she became pregnant. However, it wasn't all that straightforward due to low progesterone levels during her first pregnancy.

    This in-depth conversation with Isabel about her pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences delves into the raw and real details that many people go through but don't talk about enough! We thank Isabel for being so open with us during this conversation and simply love her positive attitude and energy. We're taking notes on this one, and we hope you can take something from it too.

    *Trigger warning - please be aware this episode contains conversation about miscarriages.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • When it comes to staying healthy, we're often told it's all about diet and exercise. But here's the scoop: sleep plays a huge role too, especially for those dealing with PCOS.

    In this week’s episode of PCOS Explained, Clare and Emma sit down to delve into the topic of sleep, particularly focusing on sleep disruption in individuals with PCOS. Their conversation highlights the power of a good night’s sleep.

    The discussion stems from an article Clare wrote for Stylist Magazine and explores different manifestations of sleep disturbances including difficulty falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, and that frustrating feeling of not being rested even after a full night's sleep.

    The episode addresses potential causes such as circadian rhythm disruptions, high stress hormones, low blood sugar levels, and sleep-disordered breathing like sleep apnea. It also delves into the interplay between insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and their effects on sleep quality.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In today's episode of PCOS Explained, host Clare is joined by Dr. Praveen De Silva, a respected gynaecologist and expert in endometriosis surgery. Praveen delves into the complexities surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

    Endometriosis affects about 10% of individuals assigned female at birth, significantly impacting their quality of life. Dr. De Silva shares invaluable insights into this condition, covering various aspects ranging from surgical treatments to the critical importance of timely diagnosis and effective management options.

    Key points discussed:

    Understanding Endometriosis surgeryEndometriosis symptoms and diagnosisTreatment options and challengesPatient guidance, support and finding specialist helpLinks to PCOS and fertility

    This episode is an essential resource for anyone affected by or interested in learning about endometriosis. His insights not only educate but also empower listeners to navigate their healthcare journey with greater understanding and confidence.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this week’s episode of PCOS Explained, host Clare sits down with Aimee, a member of the Ovie community, as she candidly shares her journey with PCOS.

    Aimee’s story began in her early 20s and is a testament to resilience, strength, and acceptance. Like many navigating PCOS, Aimee has encountered a spectrum of symptoms—from weight gain to hair growth and reactive hypoglycemia—which she refers to as her different PCOS ‘eras’. Throughout these eras, Aimee has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience, embracing each era with a mindset of befriending her PCOS.

    In her conversation, Aimee delves into her experiences with medications such as Metformin, Zoloft, and Ozempic, discussing both their benefits and side effects. She also reflects on the life challenges she’s confronted along the way and their impact on her overall health and wellness.

    Today, Aimee focuses on cultivating a balanced lifestyle by focusing on the way her habits and actions make her feel. She emphasises the importance of body neutrality, prioritising mental health, and finding joy in daily activities. Aimee’s approach to her PCOS journey is not only refreshing but also deeply inspiring.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this episode, Dr. Lara Briden returns to discuss her new book, 'The Metabolism Reset'.

    Host Clare sits down with Dr. Briden to dive into the conversation of metabolic dysfunction. They discuss the significant impact of insulin resistance on women's health, exploring how environmental changes and epigenetics contribute to the rising prevalence.

    They also explore the controversial topic of food addiction, differentiating it from eating disorders and examining how ultra-processed foods affect the brain's reward system. The discussion highlights how changes in diet, particularly focusing on whole foods and protein, can lead to significant improvements in hunger management and overall health.

    The conversation emphasizes that weight gain and metabolic issues are not moral failings but consequences of broader environmental and genetic factors. Tune in for a new perspective on metabolic health.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • Have you ever been made to believe a meal plan is the only answer to achieving all your health goals?

    In this week’s episode, Clare and Emma sit down to discuss why meal plans may not be all they are made out to be. Many women with PCOS attempt to stick to meal plans but are left feeling disappointed and unempowered when they don’t work out the way they hoped.

    Clare and Emma share why they believe meal plans are not always effective for managing PCOS and why learning to make flexible dietary choices is more sustainable. They share personal experiences and insights on how rigid meal plans fail to accommodate the variability of daily life.

    Instead, they discuss the power of building habits that are flexible and adaptable, which highlights the importance of developing long-term habits over short-term strict adherence.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this week’s episode, Steph shares her remarkable journey with PCOS, from early diagnosis to motherhood.

    Steph’s journey began during her athletic career in javelin. She shares how her athletic lifestyle initially masked many of her PCOS symptoms, which were eventually uncovered after experiencing a cyst burst.

    Steph explores the challenges of insulin resistance, brain fog, intense sugar cravings and how cortisol impacted her sleep and energy. She highlights how she began to overcome these symptoms - through the power of individualised and evidence-based nutrition, training and lifestyle advice.

    Steph also delves into her experiences with pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum life, stressing the importance of sleep, nutrition, and mental well-being.

    Steph’s journey showcases the importance of developing sustainable health routines that will stick, even when our priorities change throughout life. Steph inspires those listening to empower themselves by confronting their health issues early and taking control of their journey’s.


    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this episode, Clare and Emma sit down to delve into the world of popular weight loss drugs.

    Despite their high demand and celebrity endorsements, it's important to weigh up both the pros and cons of these trending weight loss drugs.

    We discuss their effectiveness in achieving significant weight loss, especially for people with conditions like PCOS. We also highlight the controversy surrounding their use by individuals with minimal weight to lose, the risk of severe side effects, and the realistic possibility of weight regain after stopping the medication.

    Tune in as we unpack the benefits, risks, and considerations linked to these trendy medications in weight management and overall health improvement.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • It’s time to break free from diet culture and the chatter in your head that influences your food choices. This is what is explored in today’s episode with PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare Goodwin, alongside Ovie Senior Nutritionist, Emma Wylie.

    This episode discusses the common struggles people with PCOS experience with dieting, food choices, restriction and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Clare and Emma discuss the factors that influence your relationship with food, inspiring you to gain back control and feel more empowered in your journey. They explore the path to food freedom and embodying a balanced lifestyle.

    By addressing physiological needs and adopting an 80/20 lifestyle, individuals can improve their relationship with food, overcome restrictive eating habits, and manage their PCOS symptoms without falling into the trap of fad diets.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this episode Clare sits down to speak with Elfie about her PCOS journey, from her early twenties, through struggles with fertility, undergoing IVF, and later natural conception leading to three children.

    Clare and Elfie discuss how her PCOS symptoms worsened with perimenopause, and how a partial hysterectomy did nothing to alter her worsening symptoms.

    Elfie details her battle with binge eating, exacerbated by perimenopause and PCOS, and how discovering a link between the two led her to seek help and make dietary and lifestyle changes. She dives into the challenges of insulin resistance, the effectiveness of a high-protein breakfast, and the importance of understanding one's body and hormone cycles.

    The episode also delves into the negative impact of stress and high-intensity exercise on her PCOS, and how adjusting her approach to fitness and diet helped manage her symptoms and overall health.

    In this podcast we’ll be diving into:

    PCOS and perimenopause and menopauseFeeling out of control around food Over-exercising and how to adjust this Pregnancy difficulties and changing severities of PCOS symptoms

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this week’s podcast episode, PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare Goodwin, sits down to talk with Ovie Senior Nutritionist, Emma Wylie, to unpack how the right kind of support in your PCOS journey can be critical to your long term symptom management.

    Too often we meet patients who feel completely unsupported.

    Failed by their healthcare providers, misunderstood by dieticians, not heard by their doctors, broken down by diet after diet only to still feel at square one with their symptom management.

    In this discussion real life case studies are explored from patients Clare and Emma have worked with, to offer insights and strategies to help and empower you on your PCOS journey.

    Topics discussed in this episode:

    Understanding your path to successful weight lossAcne and hirsutism medication guidance Balancing the goals of fertility and weight loss

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • We can often get caught up trying so hard to do everything perfectly, giving 100%, but as soon as we're not hitting that mark, we feel like we've failed, or as our PCOS patient Lily puts it, 'fallen off the wagon'.

    After struggling with the healthcare system, Lily took matters into her own hands and started our program. Lily followed the Ovie approach, a holistic lifestyle intervention that, within the space of a few months, helped her lose the stubborn weight she'd been trying so hard to address, reduced her acne and hirsutism, and overall benefited her life in ways she couldn't have imagined.

    In this episode, we'll discuss:

    The challenges of getting diagnosedFinding the right doctor to support you on your journeyThe complexity of PCOS and how to navigate it with a personalized planThe importance of a supportive community
    ... and much more!


    We're inspired by Lily's determination throughout the program and the progress she continues to make today.

    If you're ready to make your move and start your journey, take the Ovie questionnaire to figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

  • In this gritty conversation, Clare interviews Dr Stephanie, a physician who shares her personal and professional journey dealing with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).


    Stephanie shares incredible advice around how we should view our doctors or primary care providers' advice on our own health journey, and how it ultimately is our own decision about the steps we move forward with.

    Stephanie also shares with us great tips for how to advocate for ourselves with a diagnosis, or how to feel confident seeking multiple perspectives from different physicians.

    Stephanie shares her journey of as she puts it - sciencing the sh*t out of her PCOS - to help her make informed decisions when it came to her health.

    Regular bleeds but irregular cycles are discussed (yes, there is a difference!), as well as dealing with unexplained weight gain and difficulties losing weight and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) are just some of the juicy topics covered in this podcast.

    Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

    Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.